Venice of Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

### **Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (朱家角古镇) – "The Venice of Shanghai"**

**Location**: Qingpu District, west of Shanghai, approximately **1 hour** from downtown by car

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## **🏮 General Information**
Zhujiajiao is an **ancient water town with a history of 1,700 years**, preserving traditional Chinese architecture in its original form. It is often referred to as **"The Venice of Shanghai"** due to its winding canals that crisscross the town.

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## **🌟 Highlights You Shouldn't Miss**

### **1. Ancient Bridges and Canals**
- **Fangsheng Bridge (放生桥)**: The most beautiful ancient stone bridge with five arches in the town.
- **Boat Rides on the Canals**: Enjoy a wooden boat ride to take in the old-town atmosphere (costs around **50-100 RMB**).

### **2. Ancient Pedestrian Streets**
- **North Street (北大街)**: The oldest street, lined with local shops selling items such as:
- **Sticky Rice Dumplings (粽子)**: A specialty of Zhujiajiao.
- **Traditional Aged Vinegar**
- **Handmade Crafts**

### **3. Key Attractions**
- **Zhujiajiao City God Temple (城隍庙)**: A historic and sacred temple.
- **Kezhi Garden (课植园)**: A classic Chinese-style garden.

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## **🚌 Getting There from Shanghai**
1. **Metro Line 17**: Get off at **Zhujiajiao Station** and take a taxi (10 minutes).
2. **Bus Route Shanghai Stadium – Zhujiajiao** (costs around 12 RMB).

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## **⏰ Recommended Times to Visit**
- **Morning or weekday afternoons** (to avoid crowds on holidays).
- **Evening** (to enjoy the beautiful lantern lights).

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## **💡 Tips**
- Purchase a **combo ticket for boat rides + garden entry** for better value.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths are made of old stone.